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Is Simply Nature Organic Almond Milk Gluten Free? The Definitive Answer

3 min read

Recent market data shows that almond milk is one of the most popular non-dairy alternatives, with its consumption increasing steadily among health-conscious consumers. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, verifying a product's gluten-free status is a critical step in maintaining a safe diet. This guide provides a clear answer on Simply Nature organic almond milk.

Quick Summary

Simply Nature organic almond milk is made from naturally gluten-free almonds and water. While the product is free of gluten-containing ingredients, labeling is key to confirm certification and monitor for cross-contamination risks.

Key Points

  • Yes, it is gluten-free: Simply Nature organic almond milk's basic ingredients (almonds, water, salt, gums) are naturally free of gluten.

  • Always check the label: While generally safe, scrutinize the ingredients and look for official certifications to ensure there are no added gluten risks.

  • Beware of flavored milks: Flavored almond milks from any brand can sometimes contain hidden gluten in additives, so always check the specific product label.

  • Look for certification logos: For maximum safety, seek out third-party 'Certified Gluten-Free' logos, like GFCO, on the packaging.

  • Sold at ALDI: Simply Nature products are exclusive to ALDI stores, making them easy to find if this is your store of choice.

  • Minimizing contamination risk: A certified product from a reputable brand like Simply Nature offers reassurance against cross-contamination concerns.

In This Article

The Short Answer: Yes, It's Gluten-Free

Simply Nature Organic Almond Milk, widely available at ALDI stores, is generally considered a safe option for a gluten-free diet. The Parent Tested Parent Approved (PTPA) organization, which evaluates products, has specifically listed the unsweetened variety as both soy and gluten-free. This status is rooted in its straightforward ingredient list, which does not include any gluten-containing grains.

Inside the Bottle: A Look at the Ingredients

Simply Nature prides itself on offering products with simple, recognizable ingredients. A close examination of the almond milk's ingredient list confirms why it's a suitable gluten-free choice. The primary components—filtered water and organic almonds—are naturally free of gluten.

Simply Nature Organic Unsweetened Almond Milk Ingredients:

  • Filtered Water
  • Organic Almonds
  • Sea Salt
  • Tricalcium Phosphate
  • Gellan Gum
  • Organic Locust Bean Gum
  • Vitamin A Palmitate
  • Vitamin D2
  • Vitamin E Acetate
  • Vitamin B12

Crucially, none of these standard ingredients are derived from gluten-containing grains such as wheat, barley, or rye. While some brands raise concerns with additives, Simply Nature's transparency with thickeners like gellan and locust bean gum helps ensure their safety.

How to Verify for Your Peace of Mind

Reading the Label

For those with celiac disease or high gluten sensitivity, reading the label is the most important step. Here's what to look for on any product:

  • "Gluten-Free" Claim: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the U.S. permits this label on packaged foods with less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.
  • Third-Party Certification: Look for logos from organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). This confirms that a product has been tested to stricter standards (often less than 10 ppm) and that the facility is regularly audited.
  • Ingredient List Emphasis: In many regions, food labeling laws require gluten-containing ingredients like wheat, rye, and barley to be emphasized in the ingredient list, often in bold.
  • Cross-Contamination Warnings: Phrases like "may contain wheat" or "manufactured on shared equipment with wheat-containing foods" indicate a risk of cross-contamination, which is especially important for those with severe sensitivities.

Simply Nature vs. Generic Flavored Almond Milk

It's important to distinguish between Simply Nature's core product and other varieties of almond milk, which may contain different ingredients. This comparison highlights the importance of checking labels every time.

Feature Simply Nature Organic Unsweetened Generic Flavored Almond Milk
Gluten Status Confirmed gluten-free ingredients. Variable; check labels carefully for gluten-containing additives.
Certification Often listed as safe by third-party evaluators like PTPA. Less likely to be certified; certification must be verified on the packaging.
Ingredients Simple, organic list without gluten sources. May include added flavors or thickeners with a risk of hidden gluten.
Sweeteners No added sugar. Often contains added sugars, natural flavors, and other additives.
Flavor Profile Clean, mild nutty flavor. Can be very sweet with added artificial or natural flavorings.

The Role of Third-Party Certification

While Simply Nature generally uses safe ingredients, relying on third-party certifications offers an extra layer of assurance for many. Organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) verify that products meet stringent standards for gluten content and conduct regular audits of manufacturing facilities. For those with severe allergies, this verification can provide vital peace of mind.

A Note on Cross-Contamination

Even products with naturally gluten-free ingredients face a minimal risk of cross-contamination during processing, especially if the facility handles other gluten-containing products. Reputable manufacturers like the Simply Nature brand take precautions, but the highest assurance comes from certified products. Always purchase from trusted sources, and if you have a severe allergy, consider contacting the manufacturer for specific details on their processing protocols.

Conclusion: Making a Confident Choice

For those navigating a gluten-free diet, Simply Nature organic almond milk is a reliable choice. The product’s core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, and its brand reputation suggests careful formulation. However, the golden rule of label-reading remains essential for any processed food, especially for flavored varieties. By confirming the ingredients and looking for official certifications, you can confidently integrate this almond milk into your diet without worry, ensuring it aligns with your specific health needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources like PTPA have confirmed the unsweetened variety is gluten-free, though specific certification logos can vary. While it meets gluten-free standards based on its ingredients, checking the packaging for a third-party certification logo offers the highest assurance.

No, not all almond milks are automatically safe. While almonds are naturally gluten-free, some flavored varieties or brands may use additives or processing methods that introduce gluten. It is always important to check the ingredient list and look for 'certified gluten-free' labels.

Yes, some flavored or conventional almond milks may use thickeners, flavorings, or other additives derived from gluten-containing grains. This is why always reading the ingredient list is crucial for individuals with gluten sensitivities.

No, the ingredients list for Simply Nature organic almond milk does not include oats. It is made from filtered water, organic almonds, sea salt, and other safe additives.

Simply Nature is an exclusive store brand for ALDI grocery stores, so you can typically find it at your local ALDI retailer.

"Wheat-free" only means no wheat is present. A "gluten-free" label, on the other hand, indicates the product contains less than 20 ppm of gluten, covering all gluten-containing grains like barley and rye.

For those with celiac disease, the best practice is to choose products with a third-party gluten-free certification, which guarantees stricter testing and production standards to minimize contamination risk.

If a product is not certified gluten-free, but includes 'natural flavors,' it is best to be cautious. The safest approach is to contact the company directly or opt for a product with a clear gluten-free certification to remove all doubt.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.